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Kevalashtakam

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Kevalaasht'akam'

Madhuram' madhurebhyo'pi mangal'ebhyo'pi mangal'am |
Paavanam' paavanebhyo'pi harernaamaiva kevalam || 1 ||

Aabrahmastambaparyantam' sarvam' maayaamayam' jagat |
Satyam' satyam' punah' satyam' harernaamaiva kevalam || 2 ||

Sa guruh' sa pitaa chaapi saa maataa baandhavo'pi sah' |
Shikshayechchet sadaa smartum' harernaamaiva kevalam || 3 ||

Nih'shvaase na hi vishvaasah' kadaa ruddho bhavishyati |
Keertaneeyamato baalyaaddharernaamaiva kevalam || 4 ||

Harih' sadaa vasettatra yatra bhaagavataa janaah' |
Gaayanti bhaktibhaavena harernaamaiva kevalam || 5 ||

Aho duh'kham' mahaaduh'kham' duh'khaadduh'khataram' yatah' |
Kaachaartham' vismri'tam' ratnam' harernaamaiva kevalam || 6 ||

Deeyataam' deeyataam' karno neeyataam' neeyataam' vachah' |
Geeyataam' geeyataam' nityam' harernaamaiva kevalam || 7 ||

Tri'neekri'tya jagatsarvam' raajate sakalopari |
Chidaanandamayam' shuddham' harernaamaiva kevalam || 8 ||

Iti kevalaasht'akam ||

Meaning

Kevalashtakam is a hymn that glorifies the supreme power of chanting the holy name of Hari. It declares that the name of the Lord is sweeter than all sweetness, more auspicious than all auspiciousness, and purer than all that purifies. The entire universe—from Brahma down to the smallest being—is pervaded by Maya, and the only eternal truth is the divine name of the Lord.

The one who teaches us to remember the Lord’s name is our true guru, father, mother, and relative. Since human life is uncertain, chanting should begin from childhood. Wherever true devotees gather, chanting the Lord’s name with pure devotion, the Lord Himself resides there.

The greatest sorrow in life is forgetting the priceless jewel of God’s name while running behind trivial worldly things. Therefore one must listen, chant, and sing the name of Hari constantly. His holy name alone makes the entire world insignificant and fills the heart with pure consciousness and bliss.

Benefits:
• Purifies the mind and fills it with peace
• Removes sins, fear, and negative influences
• Strengthens devotion, meditation, and spiritual grounding
• Leads towards liberation and inner bliss

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kevalashtakam?
Kevalashtakam is an eight-verse hymn that profoundly extols the glory and power of chanting the holy name of Lord Hari (Vishnu). It emphasizes that Hari's name is the ultimate truth, salvation, and source of bliss in a world full of illusion.
When and how should one recite Kevalashtakam?
It can be recited daily, ideally in the morning or evening, or whenever one seeks spiritual solace. It can be chanted individually or collectively, with devotion and focus on the meaning of the verses, reinforcing the belief in the power of Hari's name.
What are the benefits of reciting Kevalashtakam?
Reciting Kevalashtakam purifies the mind, brings peace and joy, destroys sins, and offers protection from worldly fears. It strengthens devotion, promotes spiritual awareness, and guides the devotee towards liberation and inner bliss.
Who should recite Kevalashtakam?
Anyone seeking spiritual growth, peace of mind, freedom from worldly attachments, and a deeper connection with the divine can recite Kevalashtakam. It is particularly beneficial for devotees of Lord Vishnu and those who believe in the power of divine names.
How many times should Kevalashtakam be recited?
There is no strict rule, but reciting it once daily or multiple times with devotion is beneficial. The emphasis is on the sincerity and consistency of the chanting rather than the number of repetitions.
What is the origin or source of Kevalashtakam?
The exact author or specific historical origin of Kevalashtakam is not widely documented, but it is a traditional devotional hymn from the Vaishnava tradition. Its simple yet profound message resonates deeply with devotees across generations.

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